Anti-osteolytic therapy preserves trabecular architecture and mechanical properties of bone in tumor osteolysis.

Purpose of the study: Little is known about the effect of a tumor on the tr abecular architecture, therefore we employed an animal model for the assess ment of bone quality in tumor osteolysis to determine the alterations of th e trabecular architecture in tumor osteolysis and after an interventional t reatment with a bisphosphonate. Methods: To assess the bone mass and the mi cro-architecture of the trabecular bone in tumor osteolysis we employed a m icro-computed tomography system. For the assessment of the mechanical prope rties of the treated and non-treated tumor-bearing bones we used a torsion test. Results: The presence of a tumor in bone resulted in a reduction of b one mass, stability and architectural parameters. An interventional treatme nt of the animals with a bisphosphonate increased the bone mineral content, mechanical and architectural parameters compared to the non-treated, tumor -bearing animals. Conclusions: These results clearly show a beneficial effe ct of an antiosteolytic treatment with a bisphosphonate in regard of bone q uality in tumor-induced osteolysis.